Cleaning And Maintaining Your James Hardie Siding
Congrats! You took the step in choosing James Hardie siding for your home. SurePoint Exteriors is proud to be the local leading service provider for exterior remodeling as well as a certified James Hardie Preferred Contractor. We take pride in our work and want you to do the same.
James Hardie Siding is made of fiber cement, a material that is strong, durable, and appealing to the eye. It's also termite proof, waterproof, and won't decay. But just like our doors, windows, and other features that come with our homes, this top-rated siding requires the proper cleaning and upkeep to stay looking beautiful for years to come. Keep reading for a few helpful tips on cleaning and maintaining your James Hardie Siding to keep it in the best shape.
Washing Recommendations For Fiber Cement
Dirt and debris may build up on the surface of your siding, so it's important to give it a thorough wash every 6 to 12 months. You can do so with a garden hose and a gentle soft brush or wet cloth, moving in side to side motions in the direction of the siding. Pressure washing at a low setting is also an option for cleaning fiber cement. Be sure to take extra care while pressure washing your siding. If the pressure is too high, the water could damage it. To minimize wear and tear, use a wide fan tip and don't wash with a pressure higher than 1500 psi.
General Fiber Cement Maintenance
Making sure the James Hardie siding exterior of your home is in good shape helps prevent water intrusion and ensures the overall beauty and value of your home. Depending on the design of your home and what kind of weather elements it endures, the extent of your siding maintenance will differ. However, it's important to follow a few general guidelines in caring for your siding to keep it in good shape.
Keep vegetation like bushes and smaller trees trimmed away from the home so the branches and leaves don't wear on the color. Be sure to adjust your sprinkler systems so that they do not spray directly onto your siding for extended periods of time or soak the ground around your house. It's also recommended to keep de-icing salts away from your siding, as they might ruin its smooth and finished look.
Patching And Repairing Fiber Cement
While our James Hardie siding is long-lasting and dependable, that does not mean it won't start to show signs of wear over time. Reapplying caulk where it has weakened is a good way to ensure moisture won't enter the wall cavity. We suggest you use caulks and sealants that will stay flexible even after they dry. When shopping for caulk or sealants, look for the words “permanently flexible” on the label or within the literature that comes with the product. Other minor damage to the siding like cracks or dents can be filled with a patching compound that is compatible with fiber cement. Ask your manufacturer for recommendations on which compounds to use.